US12288430B2 - Information processing device - Google Patents

Abstract

An information processing device includes an input device and an artificial intelligence processor. First information related to a human-powered vehicle is input to the input device. The artificial intelligence processor is configured to generate second information related to at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of an element of the human-powered vehicle from history information of the first information input to the input device.

Description

BACKGROUND ART

The present invention relates to an information processing device.

Elements of a human-powered vehicle described in, for example, patent document 1 will deteriorate, wear down, or fail in accordance with the usage state and environment of the human-powered vehicle. For example, brake pads described in patent document 1 will be worn down by actuation of the brakes.

• • Patent Document 1: Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2006-143194

SUMMARY

To use the elements of the human-powered vehicle described in patent document 1, it is preferred that deterioration, wear, and failure be appropriately determined.

One object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device that appropriately determines at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of an element.

An information processing device in accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure comprises an input device to which first information related to a human-powered vehicle is input and an artificial intelligence processor including a processor configured to generate second information related to at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of an element of the human-powered vehicle from history information of the first information input to the input device.

With the information processing device in accordance with the first aspect, the artificial intelligence processor determines at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of the element in a preferred manner.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the first aspect further comprises a notification device configured to issue a notification of the second information.

With the information processing device in accordance with the second aspect, the notification device allows a user to recognize at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of an element.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the second aspect is configured so that in a case where the artificial intelligence processor determines that the element has entered a first deterioration state or a first wear state, the notification device issues the notification of the second information.

With the information processing device in accordance with the third aspect, the notification device allows a user to recognize that the element is in the first deterioration state or the first wear state.

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to any one of the first to third aspects is configured so that the second information includes information prompting at least one of replacement of the element and maintenance of the element.

With the information processing device in accordance with the fourth aspect, the user can perform at least one of replacement of the element and maintenance on the element in a preferred manner.

In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is configured so that the second information includes information related to an appropriate period for performing at least one of replacement of the element and maintenance on the element.

With the information processing device in accordance with the fifth aspect, the user can perform at least one of replacement of the element and maintenance on the element at an appropriate period.

In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects is configured so that the history information includes information related to a change in the first information and information related to at least one of usage frequency of the element and usage time of the element.

With the information processing device in accordance with the sixth aspect, the second information is generated in accordance with the information related to a change in the first information and the information related to at least one of the usage frequency of the element and the usage time of the element.

In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects is configured so that the element includes at least one of a brake device, a brake pad, a brake shoe, a hose, a disc brake rotor, oil, grease, a cable, a sprocket, a chain, a lamp, a transmission, an operation device, a wheel, a hub, a rim, a spoke, a tire, a bottom bracket, a crankshaft, a crank arm, a pedal, a handle grip, a generator, a suspension, an adjustable seatpost, a battery, and a drive device applying propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle.

With the information processing device in accordance with the seventh aspect, the artificial intelligence processor can determine in a preferred manner at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of at least one of the brake device, the brake pad, the brake shoe, the hose, the disc brake rotor, the oil, the grease, the cable, the sprocket, the chain, the lamp, the transmission, the operation device, the wheel, the hub, the rim, the spoke, the tire, the bottom bracket, the crankshaft, the crank arm, the pedal, the handle grip, the generator, the suspension, the adjustable seatpost, the battery, and the drive device assisting propulsion of the human-powered vehicle.

In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects is configured so that the element is included in the brake device and includes a friction member to brake the human-powered vehicle, and the first information includes information related to a braking distance of the human-powered vehicle.

With the information processing device in accordance with the eighth aspect, at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of a friction member included in the brake device can be determined in a preferred manner from the information related to the braking distance of the human-powered vehicle.

In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the eighth aspect is configured so that the friction member includes at least one of a brake pad and a brake shoe.

With the information processing device in accordance with the ninth aspect, at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of the brake pad and the brake shoe can be determined in a preferred manner from the information related to the braking distance of the human-powered vehicle.

In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the eighth or ninth aspect is configured so that the first information includes information related to operation of the friction member and information related to at least one of deceleration of the human-powered vehicle, position of the human-powered vehicle, and speed of the human-powered vehicle.

With the information processing device in accordance with the tenth aspect, at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of the friction member can be determined in a preferred manner from at least one of the information related to the operation of the friction member, the deceleration of the human-powered vehicle, the position of the human-powered vehicle, and the speed of the human-powered vehicle.

In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the tenth aspect further comprises a first detector configured to detect operation of the friction member and a second detector configured to detect at least one of deceleration of the human-powered vehicle, position of the human-powered vehicle, and speed of the human-powered vehicle.

With the information processing device in accordance with the eleventh aspect, the first detector detects operation of the friction member in a preferred manner. The second detector detects at least one of deceleration of the human-powered vehicle, position of the human-powered vehicle, and speed of the human-powered vehicle in a preferred manner.

In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the eleventh aspect is configured so that the first detector is provided on at least one of an operation device for operating the friction member, a cable for operating the friction member, and a hose for operating the friction member. The first detector is configured to output a signal corresponding to a force input to the operation device.

With the information processing device in accordance with the twelfth aspect, the first detector detects a signal corresponding to the force input to the operation device in a preferred manner.

In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the eighth or ninth aspect is configured so that the first information includes information related to a state of the friction member and information related to at least one of deceleration of the human-powered vehicle, position of the human-powered vehicle, and speed of the human-powered vehicle.

With the information processing device in accordance with the thirteenth aspect, at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of the element can be determined in a preferred manner from the information related to the state of the friction member and the information related to at least one of the deceleration of the human-powered vehicle, the position of the human-powered vehicle, and the speed of the human-powered vehicle.

In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the thirteenth aspect further comprises a third detector configured to detect contact of the friction member with a braking subject and a fourth detector configured to detect at least one of the deceleration of the human-powered vehicle, the position of the human-powered vehicle, and the speed of the human-powered vehicle.

With the information processing device in accordance with the fourteenth aspect, the third detector detects contact of the friction member with a braking subject. The fourth detector allows for detection of at least one of deceleration of the human-powered vehicle, position of the human-powered vehicle, and speed of the human-powered vehicle in a preferred manner.

In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the eighth or ninth aspect is configured so that the element is included in the brake device and includes a friction member to brake the human-powered vehicle, the friction member is configured to be movable between an initial position where the friction member is separated from the braking subject and a contact position where the friction member can contact the braking subject, and the first information includes the initial position and the contact position.

With the information processing device in accordance with the fifteenth aspect, at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of the element can be determined in a preferred manner from the information related to the initial position and contact position.

In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the fifteenth aspect further includes a fifth detector that detects the initial position and the contact position.

With the information processing device in accordance with the sixteenth aspect, the fifth detector detects the initial position and the contact position in a preferred manner.

In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to any one of the first to sixteenth aspects is configured so that the first information includes information related to a usage environment of the element.

With the information processing device in accordance with the seventeenth aspect, at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of the element can be determined in a preferred manner from the information related to the usage environment of the element.

In accordance with an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to any one of the first to seventeenth aspects further comprises a controller configured to control at least one of a human-powered vehicle component that includes the element and a human-powered vehicle component that does not include the element in accordance with the second information.

With the information processing device in accordance with the eighteenth aspect, at least one of a human-powered vehicle component that includes the element and a human-powered vehicle component that does not include the element can be controlled in a preferred manner in accordance with the second information.

In accordance with a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the eighteenth aspect is configured so that the human-powered vehicle component includes at least one of a transmission and a drive device that applies propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle.

With the information processing device in accordance with the nineteenth aspect, at least one of the transmission and the drive device, which applies propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle, can be controlled in accordance with the second information in a preferred manner.

In accordance with a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, the information processing device according to the eighteenth or nineteenth aspect is configured so that the controller controls at least one of the element and the human-powered vehicle component in a first control state and a second control state in which usage frequency and actuation strength of the at least one of the element and the human-powered vehicle component is decreased from that of the first control state. In a case where the artificial intelligence processor determines that the element has entered a second deterioration state or a second wear state, the controller shifts from the first control state to the second control state.

With the information processing device in accordance with the twentieth aspect, at least one of the element and the human-powered vehicle component is controlled in the second state in a case where the artificial intelligence processor determines that the element is in the second deterioration state or the second wear state.

The information processing device in accordance with the present disclosure appropriately determines at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of an element.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG.1 is a side view of a human-powered vehicle including an information processing device in accordance with one embodiment.

FIG.2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the information processing device in accordance with the embodiment.

FIG.3 is a flowchart of a process for generating second information executed by an artificial intelligence processor shown inFIG.2.

FIG.4 is a flowchart of a process for shifting from a first control state to a second control state executed by a controller shown inFIG.2.

FIG.5 is a diagram showing a disc brake system.

FIG.6 is a cross-sectional view of part of a disc brake device shown inFIG.5.

EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The phrase “at least one of” as used in this disclosure means “one or more” of a desired choice. For one example, the phrase “at least one of” as used in this disclosure means “only one single choice” or “both of two choices” if the number of its choices is two. For another example, the phrase “at least one of” as used in this disclosure means “only one single choice” or “any combination of equal to or more than two choices” if the number of its choices is equal to or more than three.

Embodiment

Aninformation processing device60 in accordance with one embodiment will now be described with reference toFIGS.1 to6. Theinformation processing device60 is for use with a human-poweredvehicle10. The human-poweredvehicle10 is a vehicle driven by at least human driving force. The human-poweredvehicle10 includes, for example, a bicycle. The number of wheels of the human-poweredvehicle10 is not limited, and the human-poweredvehicle10 includes, for example, vehicles including one wheel and vehicles including three or more wheels. The human-poweredvehicle10 includes, for example, various types of bicycles such as a mountain bike, a road bike, a city bike, a cargo bike, a recumbent bike, and an electric bike (E-bike). An electric bike includes an electric assist bicycle that assists propulsion of the vehicle with an electric motor. The human-poweredvehicle10 will be referred to as a bicycle in the embodiment described hereafter.

The human-poweredvehicle10 includes a crank12 and adrive wheel13. The human-poweredvehicle10 further includes aframe16. Human driving force is input to thecrank12. Thecrank12 includes acrankshaft12A, which is rotatable relative to theframe16, and crankarms12B, which are respectively provided on the axial ends of thecrankshaft12A. Apedal18 is coupled to each crankarm12B. Thecrank12 is rotated to drive thedrive wheel13. Thedrive wheel13 is supported by theframe16. Adrive mechanism20 links the crank12 and thedrive wheel13. Thedrive mechanism20 includes afirst rotation body22 coupled to thecrankshaft12A. Thecrankshaft12A and thefirst rotation body22 can be coupled by a first one-way clutch. The first one-way clutch is configured to rotate thefirst rotation body22 forward if thecrank12 rotates forward and not to rotate thefirst rotation body22 backward if thecrank12 rotates backward. Thefirst rotation body22 includes asprocket22A, a pulley, or a bevel gear. Thedrive mechanism20 further includes asecond rotation body24 and a linkingmember26. The linkingmember26 transmits the rotation force of thefirst rotation body22 to thesecond rotation body24. The linkingmember26 includes, for example, achain26A, a belt, or a shaft.

Thesecond rotation body24 is coupled to thedrive wheel13. Thesecond rotation body24 includes asprocket24A, a pulley, or a bevel gear. A second one-way clutch is provided between thesecond rotation body24 and thedrive wheel13. The second one-way clutch is configured to rotate thedrive wheel13 forward if thesecond rotation body24 rotates forward and not rotate thedrive wheel13 backward if thesecond rotation body24 rotates backward.

The human-poweredvehicle10 includes afront wheel14 and arear wheel15. Thefront wheel14 is coupled to theframe16 by afront fork16A. Ahandlebar16C is coupled to thefront fork16A by astem16B. In the embodiment described hereafter, therear wheel15 is thedrive wheel13. However, thefront wheel14 can be thedrive wheel13.

Thefront wheel14 includes awheel14A and atire14E. Thewheel14A includes ahub14B, a rim14C, andspokes14D. Therear wheel15 includes awheel15A and atire15E. Thewheel15A includes ahub15B, arim15C, andspokes15D.

The human-poweredvehicle10 further includes abattery28. Thebattery28 includes one or more battery cells. The battery cells include rechargeable batteries. Thebattery28 is provided on the human-poweredvehicle10 to supply electric power to other electric components electrically connected by wires to thebattery28, such as theinformation processing device60 and a human-poweredvehicle component30. Thebattery28 is connected to theinformation processing device60 and the human-poweredvehicle component30 in a manner allowing for wired communication or wireless communication. Thebattery28 is configured to communicate with the information processing device and the human-poweredvehicle component30 through, for example, power line communication (PLC). Thebattery28 can be coupled to the outside of theframe16 or be at least partially accommodated inside theframe16. Thebattery28 can be provided on at least one of theinformation processing device60 and the human-poweredvehicle component30.

The human-poweredvehicle10 further includes the human-poweredvehicle component30. The human-poweredvehicle component30 includes at least one of atransmission32 and adrive device34 that applies propulsion force to the human-poweredvehicle10.

Thetransmission32 is configured to change, in steps, the ratio of the rotational speed of thedrive wheel13 to the rotational speed of the rotation body to which human driving force is input. The rotation body to which the human driving force is input includes thecrank12. Thetransmission32 is configured to be driven by an electric actuator. The electric actuator includes an electric motor. Thetransmission32 is used to change a ratio of the rotational speed of thedrive wheel13 to the rotational speed of thecrank12. In the present embodiment, thetransmission32 is configured to change the ratio in steps. The electric actuator has thetransmission32 perform a shifting action. The electric actuator is connected to theinformation processing device60 in a manner allowing for wired communication or wireless communication. The electric actuator is configured to communicate with theartificial intelligence processor64 through power line communication (PLC). The electric actuator has thetransmission32 perform a shift action in accordance with a control signal from theinformation processing device60. Thetransmission32 includes at least one of an internal geared hub and an external shifting device (derailleur).

Thedrive device34 includes a motor and a drive circuit. Preferably, the motor is provided on the same housing as the drive circuit. The drive circuit controls the electric power supplied from thebattery28 to the motor. The drive circuit is connected to theinformation processing device60 in a manner allowing for wired communication or wireless communication. The drive circuit is configured to communicate with theinformation processing device60 through, for example, serial communication. The drive circuit drives the motor in accordance with a control signal from theinformation processing device60. The motor includes an electric motor. The motor is provided to transmit rotation to the front wheel or a transmission path extending from thepedals18 to therear wheel15. The motor is provided on theframe16 of the human-poweredvehicle10, therear wheel15, or thefront wheel14. In one example, the motor is coupled to a power transmission path extending from thecrankshaft12A to thefirst rotation body22. Preferably, a one-way clutch is provided in a power transmission path extending between the motor and thecrankshaft12A so that the rotation force of thecrank12 does not rotate the motor in a case where thecrankshaft12A is rotated in a direction moving the human-poweredvehicle10 forward. A component that differs from the motor and the drive circuit, such as a reduction gear that reduces the speed of the rotation produced by the motor and outputs the rotation, can be provided on the housing on which the motor and the drive circuit are provided.

Theinformation processing device60 includes aninput device62, to which first information related to the human-poweredvehicle10 is input, and theartificial intelligence processor64. Theartificial intelligence processor64 is configured to generate second information related to at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of anelement40 of the human-poweredvehicle10 from history information of the first information input to theinput device62.

Theartificial intelligence processor64 can be provided on the human-poweredvehicle10 or on an external device of the human-poweredvehicle10. The external device includes at least one of a cycle computer, a tablet-type computer, a smartphone, and a personal computer. Preferably, theinput device62 is provided on the same housing as theartificial intelligence processor64.

Theelement40 is abrake device42, abrake pad40B (refer toFIG.5), a brake shoe, ahose40C (refer toFIG.5), adisc brake rotor40D (refer toFIG.5), oil, grease, a cable, thesprocket22A and24A, thechain26A, alamp44, thetransmission32, anoperation device46, thewheels14A and15A, thehubs14B and15B, therims14C and15C, thespokes14D and15D, thetires14E and15E, a bottom bracket, thecrankshaft12A, the crankarms12B, thepedals18, handle grips, a generator, asuspension48, anadjustable seatpost50, thebattery28, and thedrive device34 that applies propulsion force to the human-poweredvehicle10. Thetransmission32 included in theelement40 can be amechanical transmission32 actuated by a cable. The cable is a Bowden cable.

Thebrake device42 is configured to brake at least one of thefront wheel14 and therear wheel15. Thebrake device42 can include an electric actuator. Thebrake device42 can include at least one of a disc brake, a rim brake, a drum brake, or a roller brake. Further, thebrake device42 can include an electric brake to perform regenerative braking.

Thelamp44 includes at least one of a front lamp and a tail lamp. The front lamp is attached to, for example, thefront fork16A or thehandlebar16C. The tail lamp is attached to, for example, aseat stay16D or a seatpost.

Theoperation device46 is connected to another component in a manner allowing for wired communication or wireless communication. Theoperation device46 is configured to operate the other component. The other component includes at least one of the human-poweredvehicle component30, thebrake device42, thelamp44, thesuspension48, theadjustable seatpost50, and thebattery28. Theoperation device46 is configured to communicate with the other component through power line communication (PLC). Theoperation device46 includes, for example, an operation member, a first detector configured to detect movement of the operation member, and an electric circuit that performs communication with the other component in accordance with an output signal of the first detector. As a user operates the operation member, the electric circuit transmits a signal in accordance with the output signal of the first detector to the other component. The operation member and the first detector detecting movement of the operation member are configured to include a push switch, a lever switch, or a touch panel. Theoperation device46 is provided on, for example, thehandlebar16C. Instead of being connected to the other component in a manner allowing for communication, theoperation device46 can be mechanically connected by a cable or a hose to the other component and configured to actuate the other component.

Thesuspension48 includes at least one of a rear suspension and a front suspension. Thesuspension48 absorbs impact applied to a wheel. Thesuspension48 can be a hydraulic suspension or an air suspension. Thesuspension48 includes a first portion and a second portion fitted to the first portion and movable relative to the first portion. Thesuspension48 functions in operation states including a lock state in which thesuspension48 restricts relative movement of the first portion and the second portion and an unlock state in which thesuspension48 permits relative movement of the first portion and the second portion. Thesuspension48 can include an electric actuator that actuates thesuspension48. The electric actuator includes, for example, an electric motor. The electric actuator switches the operation states of thesuspension48. The lock state of thesuspension48 can include a state in which the first portion and the second portion slightly move relative to each other when a strong impact is applied to the wheel. Instead of or in addition to the lock state and unlock state, the operation states of thesuspension48 may include at least one of a plurality of operation states of different damping forces and a plurality of operation states of different stroke amounts.

The rear suspension is configured to be provided on theframe16 of the human-poweredvehicle10. More specifically, the rear suspension is provided between the frame body of theframe16 and a swing arm that supports therear wheel15. The rear suspension absorbs impact applied to therear wheel15. The front suspension is configured to be provided between theframe16 of the human-poweredvehicle10 and thefront wheel14. More specifically, the front suspension is provided on thefront fork16A. The front suspension absorbs impact applied to thefront wheel14.

Theadjustable seatpost50 is provided on aseat tube16E and configured to change the height of a saddle. Theadjustable seatpost50 includes an electric seatpost, which extends and retracts a seatpost with the force of an electric actuator, or a mechanical seatpost, which extends the seatpost with at least one of a spring and air by controlling a valve with the force of an actuator and retracts the seatpost by applying manual force. The mechanical seatpost includes a hydraulic seatpost or a hydraulic air pressure seatpost.

Theartificial intelligence processor64 includesstorage64A that stores software and aprocessor64B that executes the software stored in thestorage64A to perform various functions of theartificial intelligence processor64. Theprocessor64B includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro-processing unit (MPU). Preferably, in addition to the CPU and the MPU, theprocessor64B includes a graphics processing unit (GPU). Theprocessor64B can include a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). Theartificial intelligence processor64 can include one ormore processors64B.

Theartificial intelligence processor64 can include a plurality ofprocessors64B arranged at separate positions.

Thestorage64A includes, for example, a nonvolatile memory and a volatile memory. Thestorage64A stores control program P1 and learning model M1. In the present embodiment, learning model M1 is a learned model learned by a predetermined learning algorithm. The learning algorithm includes machine learning, deep learning, or deep reinforcement learning. The learning algorithm includes, for example, at least one of supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning. As a learning algorithm, methods other than the method described in the present specification can be used as long as it is configured to update learning model M1 using a method belonging to the field of artificial intelligence. Preferably, the learning process for updating learning model M1 is performed by the GPU. The learning algorithm can use a neural network (NN). The learning algorithm can use a recurrent neural network. Theartificial intelligence processor64 uses learning model M1 to process the first information obtained from the input device based on control program P1 and generate the second information.

Preferably, theinformation processing device60 further includes anotification device66 configured to issue a notification. Thenotification device66 includes at least one of a display and a speaker. Thenotification device66 can be provided on the same housing as theartificial intelligence processor64 or on a housing that differs from that of theartificial intelligence processor64. Thenotification device66 can be included in at least one of a cycle computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, and a personal computer.

Preferably, history information includes information related to a change in the first information and information related to at least one of the usage frequency of theelement40 and the usage time of theelement40. The first information can include information related to the usage environment of theelement40. The information related to the usage environment includes, for example, at least one of the pressure applied to theelement40 and the temperature.

Preferably, in a case where theartificial intelligence processor64 determines that theelement40 has entered a first deterioration state or a first wear state, thenotification device66 issues a notification of the second information. In one example, the second information includes information for prompting at least one of replacement of theelement40 and maintenance of theelement40. Preferably, in this case, the first deterioration state or the first wear state is a state in which theelement40 should be replaced or undergo maintenance. Thenotification device66 shows characters or icons instructing, for example, the user to replace theelement40 or clean theelement40. In a further example, the second information includes information related to the appropriate period for performing at least one of replacement of theelement40 and maintenance on theelement40. Preferably, in this case, the first deterioration state and the first wear state are states before replacement and maintenance of theelement40 become necessary. Thenotification device66 shows, for example, characters instructing, for example, the user to replace theelement40 within thirty days or clean theelement40 within thirty days.

A process for generating the second information from the history information of the first information will now be described. In a case where theartificial intelligence processor64 is supplied with electric power, theartificial intelligence processor64 starts the process and proceeds to step S11 of the flowchart shown inFIG.3.

In step S11, theartificial intelligence processor64 generates the second information from the history information of the first information and then proceeds to step12. In step S12, theartificial intelligence processor64 determines whether or not theelement40 is in the first deterioration state or the first wear state. In a case where theelement40 is neither in the first deterioration state nor the first wear state, theartificial intelligence processor64 proceeds to step S13.

In step S13, theartificial intelligence processor64 notifies thenotification device66 of the second information and then ends the process. For example, theartificial intelligence processor64 outputs a control signal to thenotification device66 to notify thenotification device66 of information corresponding to the second information. Thenotification device66 issues a notification of the information corresponding to the second information.

Preferably, theinformation processing device60 further includes acontroller68 configured to control at least one of a human-poweredvehicle component30 that includes theelement40 and a human-poweredvehicle component30 that does not include theelement40 in accordance with the second information. In this case, instead of or in addition to at least one of thetransmission32 and thedrive device34, the human-poweredvehicle component30 can include at least one of thebrake device42, thelamp44, theoperation device46, thesuspension48, theadjustable seatpost50, and thebattery28. For example, in a case where theelement40 is afriction member40A included in thebrake device42, the human-poweredvehicle component30 that includes theelement40 is thebrake device42, and the human-poweredvehicle component30 that does not include theelement40 is a human-poweredvehicle component30 other than thebrake device42. In a case where theelement40 is, for example, in a third deterioration state or a third wear state, thecontroller68 prohibits or restricts actuation of the human-poweredvehicle component30 that includes theelement40. In a case where theelement40 is, for example, in the third deterioration state or the third wear state, thecontroller68 actuates the human-poweredvehicle component30 that does not include theelement40 so as to limit deterioration or wear.

Thecontroller68 controls at least one of theelement40 and the human-poweredvehicle component30 in a first control state and a second control state in which the usage frequency and actuation strength of the at least one of theelement40 and the human-poweredvehicle component30 is decreased from that of the first control state. In a case where theartificial intelligence processor64 determines that theelement40 has entered a second deterioration state or a second wear state, thecontroller68 can shift from the first control state to the second control state. For example, in a case where the element is thefriction member40A, thecontroller68 controls the motor of thedrive device34 in the second control state so that the assist force produced by thedrive device34 in the second control state is smaller than that in the first control state. This decreases at least one of the frequency and strength of the braking performed by thebrake device42 and reduces wear of thefriction member40A.

With reference toFIG.4, a process for shifting from the first control state to the second control state in accordance with the second information will now be described. In a case where theartificial intelligence processor64 is supplied with electric power, thecontroller68 starts the process and proceeds to step S21 of the flowchart shown inFIG.4.

In step S21, thecontroller68 determines whether or not thecontroller68 is in the first control state. In a case where thecontroller68 is not in the first control state, thecontroller68 ends the process. In a case where thecontroller68 is in the first control state, thecontroller68 proceeds to step S22.

In step S22, thecontroller68 determines whether or not theelement40 is in the second deterioration state or second wear state. In a case where theelement40 is neither in the second deterioration state nor the second wear state, thecontroller68 ends the process. In a case where theelement40 is in the second deterioration state or the second wear state, thecontroller68 proceeds to step S23. In step S23, thecontroller68 shifts to the second control state and then ends the process. Whenever a predetermined cycle elapses after the flowchart shown inFIG.4 is ended, thecontroller68 proceeds to step S21 until the supply of electric power is stopped.

Theoperation device46 and an external device or the like can be operated to shift thecontroller68 from the second control state to the first control state. After the user replaces theelement40 or performs maintenance on the element, theoperation device46 and the external device or the like is operated to shift thecontroller68 from the second control state to the first control state.

For example, theelement40 is included in thebrake device42 and includes thefriction member40A to brake the human-poweredvehicle10, and the first information includes information related to a braking distance of the human-poweredvehicle10. Thefriction member40A includes at least one of thebrake pad40B and the brake shoe. As shown inFIG.5, thebrake device42 includes, for example, adisc brake device42A. Thedisc brake device42A includes thebrake pad40B and thehose40C that is connected to theoperation device46. Thebrake device42 and theoperation device46 that operates thebrake device42 configure a brake system.

In a first example, the first information includes information related to at least one of the operation of thefriction member40A, deceleration of the human-poweredvehicle10, position of the human-poweredvehicle10, and speed of the human-poweredvehicle10. Preferably, in this case, theinformation processing device60 further includes afirst detector70 configured to that detects operation of thefriction member40A and asecond detector72 configured to detect at least one of deceleration of the human-poweredvehicle10, position of the human-poweredvehicle10, and speed of the human-poweredvehicle10. Thefirst detector70 and thesecond detector72 can be provided on a housing that is separate from the housing on which theartificial intelligence processor64 is provided. Outputs of thefirst detector70 and thesecond detector72 are input to theinput device62. Thefirst detector70 and thesecond detector72 can be electrically connected to theinput device62 by an electric cable or through wireless communication.

Thefirst detector70 is provided on at least one of theoperation device46 for operating thefriction member40A, a cable for operating thefriction member40A, and thehose40C for operating thefriction member40A. Further, thefirst detector70 is configured to output a signal corresponding to the force input to theoperation device46. Thehose40C includes a hydraulic hose.

Preferably, thesecond detector72 includes at least one of a vehicle speed sensor, a crank rotation sensor, and a global positioning system (GPS) receiver.

The vehicle speed sensor is used to detect the rotational speed of a wheel of the human-poweredvehicle10. The vehicle speed sensor outputs a signal corresponding to the rotational speed of the wheel. The speed of the human-poweredvehicle10 can be calculated from the rotational speed of the wheel. Preferably, the vehicle speed sensor includes a magnetic reed, which configures a reed switch, or a Hall element. The vehicle speed sensor can be attached to a chain stay in theframe16 of the human-poweredvehicle10 and configured to detect a magnet attached to therear wheel15. Alternatively, the vehicle speed sensor can be provided on thefront fork16A and configured to detect a magnet attached to thefront wheel14.

The crank rotation sensor is used to detect the rotational speed of thecrank12. The crank rotation sensor is provided on theframe16 of the human-poweredvehicle10 or the housing on which the motor is provided. The crank rotation sensor is configured including a magnetic sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the magnetic field intensity. An annular magnet of which the magnetic field intensity varies in the circumferential direction is provided in a power transmission path extending from thecrankshaft12A or thecrankshaft12A to thefirst rotation body22. The crank rotation sensor outputs a signal corresponding to the rotational speed of thecrank12. The magnet can be provided in a member rotated integrally with thecrankshaft12A in a power transmission path of the human driving force extending from thecrankshaft12A to thefirst rotation body22. For example, in a case where the first one-way clutch is not provided between thecrankshaft12A and thefirst rotation body22, the magnet can be provided on thefirst rotation body22. Instead of a magnetic sensor, the crank rotation sensor can include an optical sensor, an acceleration sensor, or a torque sensor.

In a second example, the first information includes information related to at least one of the state of thefriction member40A, deceleration of the human-poweredvehicle10, position of the human-poweredvehicle10, and speed of the human-poweredvehicle10. Preferably, in this case, theinformation processing device60 further includes athird detector74 configured to detect contact of thefriction member40A with a braking subject and afourth detector76 configured to detect at least one of deceleration of the human-poweredvehicle10, position information of the human-poweredvehicle10, and speed of the human-poweredvehicle10. The braking distance includes a movement distance of the human-poweredvehicle10 from when thebrake device42 starts braking to when thebrake device42 stops braking.

Thethird detector74 is provided on at least one of thefriction member40A and the braking subject to output a signal corresponding to contact of thefriction member40A with the braking subject.

Thefourth detector76 has the same configuration as thesecond detector72. Thesecond detector72 can be used as thefourth detector76. However, thefourth detector76 can be separate from thesecond detector72.

Thethird detector74 and thefourth detector76 can be provided on the same housing as theartificial intelligence processor64 or on a separate housing. The outputs of thethird detector74 and thefourth detector76 are input to theinput device62. Thethird detector74 and thefourth detector76 can be electrically connected to theinput device62 by an electric cable or through wireless communication.

In a third example, theelement40 is included in thebrake device42 and includes thefriction member40A to brake the human-poweredvehicle10, and thefriction member40A is configured to be movable between an initial position where thefriction member40A is separated from the braking subject and a contact position where thefriction member40A can contact the braking subject. The first information includes information related to the initial position and the contact position. The double-dashed lines inFIG.6 show the initial position of thefriction member40A in thedisc brake device42A, which is one example of thebrake device42. The solid lines inFIG.6 show the contact position of thefriction member40A in thedisc brake device42A, which is one example of thebrake device42. Thebrake device42 moves thefriction member40A toward the braking subject as operation of theoperation device46 moves hydraulic oil inside thehose40C. The braking subject of thedisc brake device42A includes thedisc brake rotor40D. Preferably, in this case, theinformation processing device60 further includes afifth detector78 that detects the initial position and the contact position.

Thefifth detector78 includes, for example, a linear encoder or an optical sensor. Thefifth detector78 can be provided on a housing that is separate from the housing on which theartificial intelligence processor64 is provided. The output of thefifth detector78 is input to theinput device62. Thefifth detector78 can be electrically connected to theinput device62 by an electric cable or through wireless communication.

In a case where thebrake device42 has a roll-back function, the distance from thefriction member40A to the braking subject at the initial position can be maintained within a predetermined range even if wear occurs in thefriction member40A. In this case, if thefriction member40A has a first surface faced toward thefriction member40A, the fifth detector can detect a change in the initial position of a second surface of thefriction member40A that is opposite to the first surface.

The second information can be generated in combination with one or two of the first example, the second example, and the third example. More specifically, theartificial intelligence processor64 generates the second information from one or two of the first information in the first example, the first information in the second example, and the first information in the third example.

Learning model M1 can be updated by a learning program. Preferably, the learning program is stored in thestorage64A. In this case, theartificial intelligence processor64 is operated in, for example, a learning mode and a control mode. In a case where theartificial intelligence processor64 operates in the learning mode, theartificial intelligence processor64 generates leaning mode M1 with a learning algorithm based on the learning program. In a case where theartificial intelligence processor64 operates in the control mode, theartificial intelligence processor64 processes the first information obtained from theinput device62 based on control program P1 with learning model M1 to output the second information. In a case where, for example, the period for replacing theelement40 is learned in the learning mode, theartificial intelligence processor64 receives the first information to update learning model M1. Then, after the user replaces theelement40, the user operates theoperation device46 and the external device or the like to end the learning mode. In a case where, for example, the period for performing maintenance on theelement40 is learned in the learning mode, theartificial intelligence processor64 receives the first information to update learning model M1. Then, after the user performs maintenance on theelement40, the user operates theoperation device46 and the external device or the like to end the learning mode.

DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS

10) human-powered vehicle;12A) crankshaft;12B) crank arm;14A,15A) wheel;14B,15B) hub;14C,15C) rim;14D,15D) spokes;14E,15E) tire;18) pedal;22A,24A) sprocket;26A) chain;28) battery;30) human-powered vehicle component;32) transmission;34) drive device;40) element;40A) friction member;40B) brake pad;40C) hose;40D) disc brake rotor;42) brake device;44) lamp;46) operation device;48) suspension;50) adjustable seatpost;60) information processing device,62) input device;64) artificial intelligence processor;66) notification device;68) controller;70) first detector;72) second detector;74) third detector;76) fourth detector;78) fifth detector

Claims (19)

The invention claimed is:

1. An information processing device comprising:

an input device to which first information related to a human-powered vehicle is input;

a processor that executes an artificial intelligence model to generate second information related to at least one of deterioration, wear, and failure of an element of the human-powered vehicle from history information of the first information input to the input device; and

a controller configured to control at least one of a human-powered vehicle component that includes the element and a human-powered vehicle component that does not include the element in accordance with the second information, wherein

the element of the human-powered vehicle is included in a brake device and includes a friction member to brake the human-powered vehicle,

the first information includes information related to operation of the friction member and information related to deceleration of the human-powered vehicle to generate the second information,

the controller controls at least one of the element and the human-powered vehicle component in a first control state and a second control state in which at least one of usage frequency and actuation strength of the at least one of the element and the human-powered vehicle component is decreased from that of the first control state, and

in a case where the processor determines that the element has entered a second deterioration state or a second wear state, the controller shifts from the first control state to the second control state.

2. The information processing device according toclaim 1, further comprising a notification device configured to issue a notification of the second information.

3. The information processing device according toclaim 2, wherein in a case where the processor determines that the element has entered a first deterioration state or a first wear state, the notification device issues the notification of the second information.

4. The information processing device according toclaim 1, wherein the second information includes information prompting at least one of replacement of the element and maintenance of the element.

5. The information processing device according toclaim 1, wherein the second information includes information related to an appropriate period for performing at least one of replacement of the element and maintenance on the element.

6. The information processing device according toclaim 1, wherein the history information includes information related to a change in the first information and information related to at least one of the usage frequency of the element and usage time of the element.

7. The information processing device according toclaim 1, wherein the element further includes at least one of a brake pad, a brake shoe, a hose, a disc brake rotor, oil, grease, a cable, a sprocket, a chain, a lamp, a transmission, an operation device, a wheel, a hub, a rim, a spoke, a tire, a bottom bracket, a crankshaft, a crank arm, a pedal, a handle grip, a generator, a suspension, an adjustable seatpost, a battery, and a drive device applying propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle.

8. The information processing device according toclaim 1, wherein the first information includes information related to a braking distance of the human-powered vehicle.

9. The information processing device according toclaim 8, wherein the friction member includes at least one of a brake pad and a brake shoe.

10. The information processing device according toclaim 1, wherein the first information includes the information related to speed of the human-powered vehicle.

11. The information processing device according toclaim 10, further comprising:

a first detector configured to detect the operation of the friction member; and

a second detector that configured to detect at least one of the deceleration of the human-powered vehicle, position of the human-powered vehicle, and the speed of the human-powered vehicle.

12. The information processing device according toclaim 11, wherein

the first detector is provided on at least one of an operation device for operating the friction member, a cable for operating the friction member, and a hose for operating the friction member, and

the first detector is configured to output a signal corresponding to a force input to the operation device.

13. The information processing device according toclaim 8, wherein the first information includes information related to a state of the friction member.

14. The information processing device according toclaim 13, further comprising:

a third detector configured to detect contact of the friction member with a braking subject; and

a fourth detector configured to detect the deceleration of the human-powered vehicle.

15. The information processing device according toclaim 8, wherein

the friction member is configured to be movable between an initial position where the friction member is separated from a braking subject and a contact position where the friction member can contact the braking subject, and

the first information includes the initial position and the contact position.

16. The information processing device according toclaim 15, further comprising a fifth detector that detects the initial position and the contact position.

17. The information processing device according toclaim 1, wherein the first information includes information related to a usage environment of the element.

18. The information processing device according toclaim 1, wherein the human-powered vehicle component includes at least one of a transmission and a drive device that applies propulsion force to the human-powered vehicle.

19. The information processing device according toclaim 1, wherein the processor executing the artificial intelligence model is provided on the human-powered vehicle.

Images